What Older People Can Teach You

Often, people in Western Culture point out that older people are not treated with enough respect. In other cultures, grandparents are prized and appreciated as wells of knowledge and influential experience; but here, they are too often neglected when they cannot keep up with the fast pace of Western life.

So sometimes one needs to remind you that you can learn a lot from an older person. And today, I am the one. When you break up with your longtime partner, search for a new career, or just feel like hearing a fresh perspective on things, consider seeking advice from someone besides your friends, who are wrapped up in your lifestyle anyway. Find someone who has seen a lot more of life, and seek their advice.

not my generation

Who, exactly, should you talk to? The elderly people most of us know best are relatives — grandparents, aunts and uncles. Speak to them and don't be afraid to start up a conversation with a casual acquaintance, like the slow-moving boss of your corner store, your buddy's grandfather who is always hanging around, or a neighbor you don't know all that well. Older people can often be lonely, and eager to chat with whomever.

When you have problems of any nature, elders may have good advice for you, based on their many years of experience. It is up to you to glean from their stories and tales what's important to you. Odds are you will find their advice refreshingly wise, and will realize the multitude of solutions their wisdom can offer.

Here are a few things they can advise you on:

Romance

I'm willing to bet that how your grandmother and grandfather met is an interesting story. Before the '60s, love and romance were different than they are today. Tap into this source, and you may gain a perspective on your relationship that is more valuable than that of your average advice columnist.

Family values

We hate to use a catchphrase from political elections, but they really are important. Just how important, only an older person can tell you. Learn how to make the most of your family ties, how to cherish your relationships, and how to ensure for the family's ongoing strength.

Travel stories

One couldn't always buy an airline ticket from his desk and eat at the same hamburger restaurant in Asia that he does at home. Travel has changed a lot, and an older gentleman's experience hiking through western Europe when he was in his 20s is probably a lot different from your own. Find out the way the world used to be.